Holdout supports and pre-expanded units and methods including same

ABSTRACT

An integral, unitary pre-expanded cover assembly unit for covering an electrical connection between first and second electrical cables each having a primary conductor and a neutral conductor includes a cover assembly, a holdout and a holdout support. The cover assembly includes an elastomeric sleeve and a duct. The elastomeric sleeve defines a cable passage to receive the electrical connection and the primary conductors of the first and second cables. The duct overlies the elastomeric sleeve. The duct defines a duct passage configured to receive at least one of the neutral conductors therethrough. The holdout is removably mounted within the cable passage of the elastomeric sleeve. The holdout defines a holdout passage. The holdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state. The holdout support is removably mounted within the holdout passage. The holdout support reinforces the holdout.

RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application claims the benefit of and priority from U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/460,435, filed Feb. 17, 2017, thedisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to electrical cables and connections and,more particularly, to protective covers for electrical cables andelectrical connections.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Cold shrinkable covers are commonly employed to protect or shieldelectrical power cables and connections (e.g., low voltage cables up toabout 1000 V and medium voltage cables up to about 46 kV). Oneapplication for such covers is for splice connections between concentricneutral cables. A concentric neutral cable typically includes at leastone primary conductor surrounded by a polymeric insulation layer, aconductive layer, one or more neutral conductors surrounding theconductive layer, and a polymeric jacket surrounding the neutralconductors. Examples of cold shrinkable covers for use with concentricneutral cables include the “All-in-One” CSJA Cold Shrinkable joint,available from TE Connectivity, which includes an integral neutralconductor mesh. It is also known to cover splices between concentricneutral cables using a cold shrink elastomeric cover tube (such as theCSJ product, a plastic closure for sealing and protecting electricalcable, available from TE Connectivity) in combination with a separatere-jacketing cover (such as the GelWrap™ cover product, available fromTE Connectivity). In this case, the cold shrink tube is installed from aholdout over the primary conductors and the insulation layers, theneutral conductors are laid over the cold shrink tube, and there-jacketing cover is subsequently wrapped around the neutral conductorsand the insulation layer.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to embodiments of the invention, an integral, unitarypre-expanded cover assembly unit for covering an electrical connectionbetween first and second electrical cables each having a primaryconductor and a neutral conductor includes a cover assembly, a holdoutand a holdout support. The cover assembly includes an elastomeric sleeveand a duct. The elastomeric sleeve defines a cable passage to receivethe electrical connection and the primary conductors of the first andsecond cables. The duct overlies the elastomeric sleeve. The ductdefines a duct passage configured to receive at least one of the neutralconductors therethrough. The holdout is removably mounted within thecable passage of the elastomeric sleeve. The holdout defines a holdoutpassage. The holdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expandedstate. The holdout support is removably mounted within the holdoutpassage. The holdout support reinforces the holdout.

According to embodiments of the invention, a method for forming aconnection assembly includes: forming an electrical connection betweenfirst and second electrical cables, the first and second cables eachincluding a primary conductor and at least one neutral conductor; andproviding an integral, unitary pre-expanded cover assembly unit. Thepre-expanded cover assembly unit includes a cover assembly, a holdoutand a holdout support. The cover assembly includes: an elastomericsleeve defining a cable passage to receive the electrical connection andthe primary conductors of the first and second cables; and a ductoverlying the elastomeric sleeve, the duct defining a duct passageconfigured to receive at least one of the neutral conductorstherethrough. The holdout is removably mounted within the cable passageof the elastomeric sleeve. The holdout defines a holdout passage. Theholdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state. Theholdout support is removably mounted within the holdout passage. Theholdout support reinforces the holdout. The method further includes:removing the holdout support from the holdout passage; mounting thecover assembly on the cables such that the electrical connection and theprimary conductors of the first and second cables extend through thecable passage and the holdout passage; inserting the at least oneneutral conductor of the first cable through the duct passage; removingthe holdout from the elastomeric sleeve; and coupling the at least oneneutral conductor of the first cable with the at least one neutralconductor of the second cable.

According to embodiments of the invention, an integral, unitarypre-expanded cover assembly unit for covering an elongate substrateincludes an elastomeric sleeve, a holdout and a holdout support. Theelastomeric sleeve defines a sleeve passage to receive the elongatesubstrate. The holdout is removably mounted within the sleeve passage ofthe elastomeric sleeve. The holdout defines a holdout passage. Theholdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state. Theholdout support is removably mounted within the holdout passage. Theholdout support reinforces the holdout. The holdout support isconfigured to be selectively transitioned from an expanded configurationin the holdout passage to a released configuration to facilitate removalof the holdout support from the holdout passage.

According to embodiments of the invention, a sleeve support assembly forsupporting an elastomeric sleeve defining a sleeve passage to receive anelongate substrate includes a holdout and a holdout support. The holdoutis configured to be removably mounted within the sleeve passage of theelastomeric sleeve. The holdout defines a holdout passage. The holdoutmaintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state when mountedwithin the sleeve passage. The holdout support is removably mountedwithin the holdout passage. The holdout support reinforces the holdout.The holdout support is configured to be selectively transitioned from anexpanded configuration in the holdout passage to a releasedconfiguration to facilitate removal of the holdout support from theholdout passage.

According to embodiments of the invention, a method for installing anelastomeric sleeve defining a sleeve passage on an elongate substrateincludes providing a pre-expanded unit including: an elastomeric sleevedefining a sleeve passage to receive the elongate substrate; a holdoutremovably mounted within the sleeve passage of the elastomeric sleeve,the holdout defining a holdout passage, wherein the holdout maintainsthe elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state; and a holdout supportremovably mounted within the holdout passage, wherein the holdoutsupport reinforces the holdout. The holdout support is configured to beselectively transitioned from an expanded configuration in the holdoutpassage to a released configuration to facilitate removal of the holdoutsupport from the holdout passage. The method further includes:transitioning the holdout support from the expanded configuration to thereleased configuration; removing the holdout support from the holdoutpassage; mounting the elastomeric sleeve and the holdout on the elongatesubstrate such that the elongate substrate extends through the sleevepassage and the holdout passage; and removing the holdout from theelastomeric sleeve.

According to embodiments of the invention, an integral, unitarypre-expanded cover assembly unit for covering an elongate substrateincludes an elastomeric sleeve, a holdout and a holdout support. Theelastomeric sleeve defines a sleeve passage to receive the elongatesubstrate. The holdout is removably mounted within the elastomericsleeve. The holdout defines a holdout passage. The holdout maintains theelastomeric sleeve in an expanded state. The holdout support isremovably mounted within the holdout passage. The holdout supportreinforces the holdout. The holdout support includes a first insertmember and a second insert member. First insert member and the secondinsert member are independently removable from the holdout passage tofacilitate removal of the holdout support from the holdout passage.

According to embodiments of the invention, a sleeve support assembly forsupporting an elastomeric sleeve defining a sleeve passage to receive anelongate substrate includes a holdout and a holdout support. The holdoutis configured to be removably mounted within the sleeve passage of theelastomeric sleeve. The holdout defines a holdout passage. The holdoutmaintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state when mountedwithin the sleeve passage. The holdout support is removably mountedwithin the holdout passage. The holdout support reinforces the holdout.The holdout support includes a first insert member and a second insertmember. The first insert member and the second insert member areindependently removable from the holdout passage to facilitate removalof the holdout support from the holdout passage.

According to embodiments of the invention, a method for installing anelastomeric sleeve defining a sleeve passage on an elongate substrateincludes providing a pre-expanded unit including: an elastomeric sleevedefining a sleeve passage to receive the elongate substrate; a holdoutremovably mounted within the sleeve passage of the elastomeric sleeve,the holdout defining a holdout passage, wherein the holdout maintainsthe elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state; and a holdout supportremovably mounted within the holdout passage, wherein the holdoutsupport reinforces the holdout. The holdout support includes a firstinsert member and a second insert member. The first insert member andthe second insert member are independently removable from the holdoutpassage to facilitate removal of the holdout support from the holdoutpassage. The method further includes: removing the holdout support fromthe holdout passage, including independently removing the first insertmember and the second insert member from the holdout passage; mountingthe elastomeric sleeve and the holdout on the elongate substrate suchthat the elongate substrate extends through the sleeve passage and theholdout passage; and removing the holdout from the elastomeric sleeve.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pre-expanded cover assembly unitincluding a cover assembly and a holdout device according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded, perspective view of the pre-expanded coverassembly unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an end view of the pre-expanded cover assembly unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the pre-expanded cover assembly unitof FIG. 1 taken along the line 4-4 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a side view of an insert member forming a part of thepre-expanded cover assembly unit of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a cover assembly and a holdoutdevice forming a part of the pre-expanded cover assembly unit of FIG. 1taken along the line 4-4 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an exemplary concentric neutral cable.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are side views illustrating procedures for installing thecover assembly of FIG. 1 on a pair of concentric neutral cables coupledby a connector.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a covered splice connection.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an insert member according to furtherembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a holdout support according to furtherembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 13 is an end view of the holdout support of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a side view of an outer insert member forming a part of theholdout support of FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is a side view of an inner insert member forming a part of theholdout support of FIG. 12.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a pre-expanded cover assembly unitincluding the holdout support of FIG. 12, wherein the holdout support isin an expanded configuration.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the pre-expanded cover assemblyunit of FIG. 16, wherein the holdout support is in a releasedconfiguration.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a holdout support according to furtherembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the holdout support of FIG. 18.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the holdout support of FIG. 18taken along the line 20-20 of FIG. 19, wherein a holdout support is inan expanded configuration.

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the holdout support of FIG. 18wherein the holdout support is in a released configuration.

FIG. 22 is a top view of an inner insert member forming a part of theholdout support of FIG. 18.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a holdout support according to furtherembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a top view of the holdout support of FIG. 23.

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the holdout support of FIG. 23taken along the line 25-25 of FIG. 23, wherein the holdout support is ina locked and expanded configuration.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a holdout support according to furtherembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 27 is a top view of the holdout support of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of the holdout support of FIG. 26taken along the line 28-28 of FIG. 26, wherein the holdout support is ina locked and expanded configuration.

FIG. 29 is a side view of a lock member forming a part of the holdoutsupport of FIG. 26.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrativeembodiments of the invention are shown. In the drawings, the relativesizes of regions or features may be exaggerated for clarity. Thisinvention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and shouldnot be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather,these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thoroughand complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to thoseskilled in the art.

It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being“coupled” or “connected” to another element, it can be directly coupledor connected to the other element or intervening elements may also bepresent. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directlycoupled” or “directly connected” to another element, there are nointervening elements present. Like numbers refer to like elementsthroughout. As used herein the term “and/or” includes any and allcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

In addition, spatially relative terms, such as “under”, “below”,“lower”, “over”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to anotherelement(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will beunderstood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompassdifferent orientations of the device in use or operation in addition tothe orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device inthe figures is turned over, elements described as “under” or “beneath”other elements or features would then be oriented “over” the otherelements or features. Thus, the exemplary term “under” can encompassboth an orientation of over and under. The device may be otherwiseoriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatiallyrelative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. Asused herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify thepresence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements,and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of oneor more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,components, and/or groups thereof.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will befurther understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly useddictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art andwill not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unlessexpressly so defined herein.

As used herein, “monolithic” means an object that is a single, unitarypiece formed or composed of a material without joints or seams.

With reference to FIGS. 1-10, a pre-expanded cover assembly unit 12according to some embodiments of the present invention is shown therein.The pre-expanded cover assembly unit 12 includes a cover assembly 100,and a sleeve support assembly 203. The sleeve support assembly 203includes a holdout device 102 and a holdout support 200. The holdoutsupport 200 is assembled from a holdout support system 201, as discussedbelow.

In the pre-expanded cover assembly unit 12, the holdout device 102maintains the cover assembly 100 in an expanded state or position. Theholdout support 200 in turn supports or reinforces the holdout device102 to resist undesired deformation of the holdout device 102 under theradially compressive load of the cover assembly 100. In particular, theholdout support 200 prevents, limits or resists radial deformation ofthe holdout device 102, as discussed in more detail below.

The cover assembly 100 may be used to cover and electrically insulateelectrical substrates such as cables and connectors. The cover assembly100 may be deployed from the holdout device 102 and mounted on theintended substrate in a retracted state or position as shown in FIG. 10and discussed in more detail below. According to some embodiments, thecover assembly 100 is a cold shrink cover, meaning that it can be shrunkor retracted about the substrate without requiring the use of appliedheat. The cover assembly 100 is exemplary and embodiments of theinvention are not limited to use of the holdout support 200 with a coverassembly 100 as shown.

The cover assembly 100 includes a release layer 112, a metal contactlayer 114, two duct retention bands or tapes 116, two metal contactlayer retention bands or tapes 118, a Faraday cage layer 122, two stresscone layers 124, an inner sleeve (or insulation body) 130, asemiconductor layer 139, an outer sleeve (or re-jacket) 140, and apassthrough tube or duct 151. In some embodiments, the Faraday cagelayer 122, the stress cone layers 124, and the inner sleeve 130 arebonded (e.g., adhered or molded) together to form a unitary component inthe form of a sleeve assembly 131.

The cover assembly 100 may be used to cover and seal a connection orsplice between two or more cables 40, 50 including a connector 60 toform a connection assembly 10 as shown in FIGS. 8 and 10. According tosome embodiments, the cables 40, 50 are concentric neutral cables.

FIG. 6 shows the pre-expanded unit 12 without the holdout support 200installed in the holdout device 102, for the purpose of explanation.With reference to FIGS. 2 and 6, the cover assembly 100 has a lengthwiseaxis A-A. The Faraday cage layer 122, the stress cone layers 124, theinner sleeve 130, the semiconductor layer 139, the outer sleeve 140, andthe duct 151 are provided as an integral, unitary structure extendinglengthwise along the axis A-A. According to some embodiments, the coverassembly 100 is provided pre-installed and pre-expanded on the holdout102.

The inner sleeve 130 has opposed ends 132A, 132B. The inner sleeve 130is tubular and defines an axially extending conductor through passage136 that communicates with opposed end openings 134A, 134B.

The Faraday cage layer 122 is illustrated as a generally tubular sleevebonded to the inner surface 120 of the inner sleeve 130. The Faradaycage layer 122 may be formed of a suitable elastically conductiveelastomer. In use, the Faraday cage layer 122 may form a Faraday cage toprovide an equal potential volume about the connector 60 so that anelectric field is cancelled in the surrounding air voids.

The stress cone layers 124 are illustrated as generally tubular sleevesbonded to the inner surface 130A of the inner sleeve 130 at either end132A, 132B thereof. The stress cone layers 124 may be formed of asuitable electrically conductive elastomer. In use, the stress conelayers 124 may serve to redistribute the voltage along the surface ofthe cable insulation 44, 54 to reduce or prevent the degradation of theinsulation 44, 54 that might otherwise occur.

According to some embodiments, the layers 122, 124 are formed of amaterial having a Modulus at 100 percent elongation (M100) in the rangeof from about 0.68 to 0.88 MPa.

The semiconductor layer 139 fully circumferentially surrounds the innersleeve 130. According to some embodiments, the semiconductor layer 139is coextensive with the inner sleeve 130.

The metal contact layer 114 is an electrically conductive, tubularsleeve surrounding and contacting the semiconductor layer 139. In someembodiments, the metal contact layer 114 is a copper mesh wrap or sock.The metal contact layer 114 is secured to the inner sleeve 130 by thetape wraps 118. The tapes 118 may be vinyl, adhesive-backed tape, forexample.

The outer sleeve 140 has opposed ends 142A, 142B. The outer sleeve 140is tubular and defines an axially extending conductor through passagethat communicates with opposed end openings 144A, 144B (FIG. 10). Whenmounted on the holdout 102 as shown in FIGS. 2, 4 and 6, outer sections149 of the outer sleeve 140 are folded back on an intermediate section148 of the outer sleeve 140 at annular folds 149A.

The release layers 112 are tubular sleeves surrounding the outer sleeve140 between each folded back outer section 149 and the opposingunderlying portion of the outer sleeve 140. The release layers 112reduce friction and binding between the overlying portions of the outersleeve 140 so that the outer sections 149 can be more easily slid orrolled into their extended positions as discussed below. The releaselayers 112 may be formed of a polymeric material (e.g., vinyl) mesh. Therelease layers 112 may also be provided with a lubricant (e.g., grease).

The illustrated duct 151 is a tubular assembly including a tubular ductsleeve or body 150 and a pair of end caps or covers 160 mounted on theopposed ends of the duct body 150. The duct 151 has a lengthwise axisD-D extending substantially parallel to the cover assembly axis A-A. Theduct 151 is secured to the inner sleeve 130 over the copper mesh 114 bythe tape wraps 116. The tapes 116 may be vinyl, adhesive-backed tape,for example.

The duct body 150 is tubular and elongate. In some embodiments, the ductbody 150 is flexible. The duct body 150 has a lengthwise axis extendingsubstantially parallel to, and in some embodiments substantiallyconcentric with, the lengthwise axis D-D of the duct assembly 151. Theduct body 150 has an inner surface defining an axially extending neutralconductor through passage 156 terminating at and communicating withopposed and openings 154A, 154B.

The duct body 150 may be configured to bend about a primary bend axisthat is transverse to the lengthwise axis D-D, while also providing goodcrush resistance to radial loads.

The semiconductor layer 139 can be formed of any suitable electricallysemiconductive material. According to some embodiments, thesemiconductor layer 139 is formed of an elastically expandable material.According to some embodiments, the semiconductor layer 139 is formed ofan elastomeric material. According to some embodiments, thesemiconductor layer 139 is formed of carbon black and silicone. Othersuitable materials may include carbon black and EPDM.

The inner sleeve 130 can be formed of any suitable material. Accordingto some embodiments, the inner sleeve 130 is formed of a dielectric orelectrically insulative material. According to some embodiments, theinner sleeve 130 is formed of an elastically expandable material.According to some embodiments, the inner sleeve 130 is formed of anelastomeric material. According to some embodiments, the inner sleeve130 is formed of liquid silicone rubber (LSR). Other suitable materialsmay include EPDM or ethylene propylene rubber (EPR). According to someembodiments, the inner sleeve 130 has a Modulus at 100 percentelongation (M100) in the range of from about 0.4 to 0.52 MPa.

According to some embodiments, the thickness T1 (FIG. 6) of the innersleeve 130 is in the range from about 0.07 to 2 inches. According tosome embodiments, the length of the inner sleeve 130 is in the rangefrom about 8 to 30 inches.

The outer sleeve 140 can be formed of any suitable material. Accordingto some embodiments, the outer sleeve 140 is formed of an electricallyinsulative material. According to some embodiments, the outer sleeve 140is formed of an elastically expandable material. According to someembodiments, the outer sleeve 140 is formed of an elastomeric material.According to some embodiments, the outer sleeve 140 is formed ofethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber. Other suitable materialsmay include neoprene or other rubber. According to some embodiments, theouter sleeve 140 has a Modulus at 100 percent elongation (M100) in therange of from about 0.6 to 1.1 MPa.

According to some embodiments, the thickness T2 (FIG. 6) of the outersleeve 140 is in the range of from about 0.03 to 0.25 inch. According tosome embodiments, the length L2 (FIG. 10) of the outer sleeve 140 is inthe range of from about 15 to 35 inches. According to some embodiments,the length of each outer section 149 of the outer sleeve 140 is in therange of from about 10 to 90 percent of the length L2.

According to some embodiments, the duct body 150 has a width in therange of from about 0.5 to 2.0 inches. According to some embodiments,the duct body 150 has a radial height in the range of from about 0.25 to1.0 inches.

According to some embodiments, the length of the duct 151 is in therange of from about zero to 3 inches greater or shorter than the lengthof the inner sleeve 130.

In some embodiments, the passage 156 has a height in the range of fromabout 0.125 to 1.0 inch. In some embodiments, the passage 156 has awidth in the range of from about 0.25 to 2 inches.

While the duct 151 as illustrated extends beyond the full length of theinner sleeve 130, according to other embodiments, the duct extends onlypartially (i.e., a distance less than the full length) across the innersleeve 130.

The duct body 150 can be formed of any suitable material. According tosome embodiments, the duct body 150 is formed of a flexible materialthat is geometrically configured to permit or enable flexibility of theduct body 150 as described herein. In some embodiments, the duct body150 is formed of a semi-rigid material that is geometrically configuredto permit or enable flexibility of the duct body 150 as describedherein. In some embodiments, the duct body 150 is formed of a semi-rigidor rigid material and includes integral joints, joint features or jointmechanisms that permit or enable flexibility of the duct body 150 asdescribed herein. In some embodiments, the joints enable the duct body150 to bend at prescribed locations along the length of the duct body150.

According to some embodiments, the duct body 150 is formed of anelectrically conductive material. According to some embodiments, theduct body 150 is formed of metal. According to some embodiments, theduct body 150 is formed of a polymeric material. According to someembodiments, the duct body 150 is formed of an electrically conductiveplastic.

In some embodiments, the duct body 150 is a tubular, flexible corrugatedconduit. In some embodiments, the duct body 150 is a helicallycorrugated tube or an annularly corrugated tube. In some embodiments,the corrugated conduit is formed of metal (e.g., galvanized steel). Insome embodiments, the duct body 150 is a tubular, flexible stripwoundconduit including a helically wound strip. The stripwound conduit mayhave an engaged profile or, alternatively, an interlocked profile.

According to some embodiments, the duct body 150 is formed of a materialhaving an Elastic Modulus in the range of from about 2 GPa to 3.5 GPaand, in some embodiments, in the range of from about 0.5 GPa to 2 GPa.

According to some embodiments, the nominal thicknesses of the walls ofthe duct body 150 are in the range of from about 0.02 to 0.063 inch.

According to some embodiments, the holdout 102 includes a flexible strip102A helically wound to form a holdout body in the form of a rigidcylinder 102B having a central lengthwise axis E-E and defining aholdout passage 102D. The strip 102A includes a pull cord 102C extendingfrom a distal end 102E of the cylinder 102B and through the passage 102Dand beyond the proximal end 102F of the cylinder 102B.

The holdout device 102 may be factory installed. The holdout 102 can beformed of any suitable material. According to some embodiments, theholdout 102 is formed of a semi-rigid or rigid plastic. In someembodiments, the holdout 102 is formed of polypropylene, PVC or ABS.

The cover assembly 100 may be formed by any suitable method andapparatus. According to some embodiments, the inner sleeve 130 is moldedand the outer sleeve 140 is thereafter insert overmolded about the innersleeve 130 with the duct 151 and other components interposedtherebetween.

According to further embodiments, the inner sleeve 130 and the outersleeve 140 are separately formed (for example, by molding or extrusion)and thereafter the outer sleeve 140 is mounted on the inner sleeve 130with the duct 151 and other components interposed therebetween.

According to some embodiments, the inner sleeve 130 is unitarily molded.According to some embodiments, the outer sleeve 140 is unitarily molded.Alternatively, the inner sleeve 130 and/or the outer sleeve 140 may beextruded. According to some embodiments, the inner sleeve 130 and/or theouter sleeve 140 is unitarily extruded.

The holdout support 200 includes a first insert member 210 and a secondinsert member 240. The first insert member 210 will be described in moredetail hereinbelow. The insert members 210, 240 may be constructed inthe same or similar manner and configuration and, therefore, it will beappreciated that the description of the insert member 210 likewiseapplies to the insert member 240. In some embodiments, the insertmembers 210, 240 are substantially identical.

The insert member 210 has opposed ends 212A, 212B. The insert member 210has a lengthwise axis K-K and a lateral axis J-J perpendicular to thelengthwise axis K-K. The axis K-K is parallel to or concentric with thelengthwise axis E-E of the holdout 102 in the assembly 203. The insertmember 210 has an outer portion 214A extending from the outer end 212Aand an inner portion 214B extending from the inner end 212B. Opposedlateral edges 216 extend lengthwise substantially parallel to the axisK-K, from end 212A to end 212B.

A longitudinally extending receiver slot 220 is defined in the innerportion 214B and is open at the inner end 212B. The slot 220 definesopposed longitudinally extending legs 222. Openings or eyelets 224 aredefined in the inner ends of the legs 222.

The outer portion 214A may be provided with a handle 230 and laterallyextending crossbars 226 defining openings or voids 228 therebetween.

The insert members 210, 240 are assembled into the holdout support 200by relatively orienting the insert members 210, 240 at a 90 degreeangular offset and inserting each insert member 210, 240 into thereceiver slot 220 of the other as shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4. The insertmembers 210, 240 are thereby secured in a criss-cross configuration withtheir respective lengthwise axes K-K substantially parallel and theirrespective lateral axes J-J substantially perpendicular. In this way,the insert members 210, 240 form a generally “t” or “+” profile, shapeor configuration in lateral cross-section (FIG. 3).

The assembled holdout support 200 extends from an end 200A to an end200B. According to some embodiments, the length L9 (FIG. 4) of theholdout support 200 is in the range of from about 6 to 35 inches.According to some embodiments, the length L9 is greater than the lengthof the holdout 102. According to some embodiments, the length L9 is inthe range of from about 1 inch greater or less than the length of theholdout 102.

The insert members 210, 240 can be formed of any suitable material.According to some embodiments, the insert members 210, 240 are formed ofa polymeric material. According to some embodiments, the insert members210, 240 are formed of a semi-rigid or rigid plastic. In someembodiments, the insert members 210, 240 are formed of polypropylene,PVC or ABS.

The insert members 210, 240 may each be formed by any suitabletechnique. According to some embodiments, each insert member 210, 240 isextruded and cut to length and shape. According to some embodiments,each insert member 210, 240 is molded (e.g., injection molded). In someembodiments, each insert member 210, 240 is a unitary, monolithicstructure.

According to some embodiments, the insert members 210, 240 are formed ofa material having an Elastic Modulus in the range of from about 2.0 GPato 3.5 GPa and, in some embodiments, in the range of from about 0.5 GPato 2.0 GPa.

According to some embodiments, the thickness T11 (FIG. 3) of each insertmember 210, 240 is in the range of from about 2 to 20 mm.

According to some embodiments, the lengthwise depth L12 (FIG. 5) of eachslot 220 is in the range of from about 120 to 300 mm. According to someembodiments, the width W12 (FIG. 5) of each slot 220 is in the range offrom about 6 to 90 mm.

The pre-expanded unit 12 can be assembled or manufactured as follows inaccordance with methods of the invention. The holdout 102 is providedhaving an initial or relaxed inner diameter. The holdout support 200 isassembled as described above from the insert members 210, 240. Theholdout support 200 is then inserted into the passage 102D of theholdout 102 as shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4. Alternatively, the insertmembers 210, 240 may be individually inserted into the passage 102D toassemble the holdout support 200 in the passage. The sleeve supportassembly 203 is thereby constructed.

In some embodiments, the holdout pull cord 102C is removed from theholdout passage 102D to make room for insertion of the insert members210, 240 into the holdout passage 102D. The pull cord 102C may beinserted through one or both of the eyelets 224 of one of the insertmembers 210, 240 so that when the insert member 210, 240 is insertedinto the passage 102D, the pull cord 102C is thereby reinserted into orre-routed through the passage 102D.

In some embodiments, the widths W11 of the insert members 210, 240 arechosen such that the holdout support 200 can be slid into the passagewith little resistance. According to some embodiments, the lateral widthW11 (FIG. 5) of each insert member 210, 240 is substantially the same asthe relaxed inner diameter of the holdout 102 before the elasticallyexpanded inner sleeve 130 is mounted on the holdout 102. In someembodiments, the lateral width W11 is in the range of from about 0 to 3mm less than the relaxed inner diameter of the holdout 102.

The inner sleeve 130 and remaining components of the cover assembly 100are thereafter mounted on the holdout 102 (i.e., on the sleeve supportassembly 203). In particular, the inner sleeve 130 is mounted on theholdout 102 in an elastically expanded state. The inner diameter of theinner sleeve 130 in a relaxed state is less than the outer diameter ofthe holdout 102 and, as a result, the holdout 102 maintains the innersleeve 130 in an elastically radially expanded state. The outer sleeve140 may also be maintained in an elastically radially expanded state.

A duct position axis G-G (FIG. 3) is defined by the central axis D-D ofthe duct 151 and a central axis E-E of the holdout device 102 (i.e., theduct position axis G-G is perpendicular to and intersects each of theaxes D-D and E-E). According to some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 3,the holdout support 200 is angularly oriented with respect to the coverassembly 100 such that the lateral axis J-J of the insert member 210 issubstantially parallel to or aligned with the duct position axis G-G.

As discussed above, the inner sleeve 130 surrounds the holdout device102 in a radially elastically expanded state. As a result, the innersleeve member 130 retains an elastic recovery force and applies apersistent radially compressive load on the holdout device 102 tendingto force the holdout device 102 to compress or deform radially inward.

This radially compressive load may reduce the inner diameter of theholdout device 102 along one or more lateral or radial axes. Inparticular, in the absence of the holdout support 200, the compressiveload may deform or ovalize the holdout device 102 into an eccentric ornoncircular cross-sectional shape. For example, the holdout device 102may assume an oval cross-sectional shape. Typically, the major axis ofthe oval would extend substantially perpendicular to the duct positionaxis G-G and the minor axis of the oval would extend substantiallyparallel to the duct position axis G-G.

However, the holdout support 200 reinforces the holdout device 102 toprevent or limit the deformation of the holdout device 102 by theradially compressive load of the cover assembly 100. In this way, theholdout support 200 prevents or limits deformation of thecross-sectional shape of the holdout device 102. For example, theholdout support 200 may prevent the holdout device 102 from becomingnoncircular (e.g., oval) in the cross-sectional shape or limit theextent to which the holdout device 102 becomes noncircular. In someembodiments, the holdout support is configured to permit a limitedamount of such deformation. In some embodiments, the permitted amount ofdeformation is less than 10 percent along any lateral axis and, in someembodiments, is in the range of from about 0 to 5 mm. The limiteddeformation causes the holdout device 102 to exert a gripping force onthe holdout support 200 so that the holdout support 200 is retained inthe passage 102D by a limited interference fit.

As discussed above, the lateral axis J-J of the insert member 210 issubstantially aligned with the duct position axis G-G. As such theinsert member 210 is positioned and oriented to counteract the greatestcompressive load along its load axis, which substantially coincides withthe duct position axis G-G.

The insert members 210, 240 together provide multiple axis support tothe holdout device 102.

The holdout support 200 can provide resistance to warpage or deformationof the holdout device 102 as described above at different stages duringthe life of the pre-expanded unit 12. The holdout support 200 canprovide resistance to warpage or deformation of the holdout device 102during assembly of the pre-expanded unit 12 (i.e., as the cover assembly100 is being mounted on the holdout device 102), during storage of thepre-expanded unit 12, and during transport of the pre-expanded unit 12.Notably, the pre-expanded unit 12 may be exposed to temperaturefluctuations and external loads tending to deform the holdout device102, which are likewise resisted by the holdout support.

Referring now to FIGS. 8-10, the pre-expanded unit 12 may be used in thefollowing manner to apply the cover 100 over a splice connection 15(FIG. 8) between a pair of electrical power transmission cables 40, 50to form a connection assembly 10. According to some embodiments, thecables 40, 50 are low-voltage or medium-voltage (e.g., between about 5and 46 kV) power transmission cables. As shown in FIG. 7, the cable 40includes a primary electrical conductor 42, a polymeric insulation layer44, a semiconductor layer 45, one or more neutral conductors 46, and ajacket 48, with each component being concentrically surrounded by thenext. According to some embodiments and as shown, the neutral conductors46 are individual wires, which may be helically wound about thesemiconductor layer 45. The primary conductor 42 may be formed of anysuitable electrically conductive materials such as copper (solid orstranded). The polymeric insulation layer 44 may be formed of anysuitable electrically insulative material such as crosslinkedpolyethylene (XLPE) or EPR. The semiconductor layer 45 may be formed ofany suitable semiconductor material such as carbon black with silicone.The neutral conductors 46 may be formed of any suitable material such ascopper. The jacket 48 may be formed of any suitable material such asEPDM. The cable 50 is similarly constructed with a primary electricalconductor 52, a polymeric insulation layer 54, a semiconductor layer 55,one or more neutral conductors 56, and a jacket 58 corresponding tocomponents 42, 44, 45, 46 and 48, respectively.

The connection assembly 10 may be formed and the cover assembly 100 maybe installed as follows. The cables 40, 50 are prepared as shown in FIG.8 such that a segment of each layer extends beyond the next overlyinglayer, except that the neutral conductors 46 of the cable 40 extend atleast a prescribed distance beyond the end of the primary conductor 42.This excess length of the conductors 46 can be folded back away from theterminal end of the primary conductor 42 as shown in FIG. 8.

The holdout support 200 is withdrawn (i.e., pulled or pushed) from thepassage 102D of the holdout device 102 so that the cover assembly 100remains expanded on the holdout 102 as shown in FIG. 6. The holdoutsupport 200 may be withdrawn from the passage 102D as a unit, or theinsert members 210, 240 may be individually withdrawn. In someembodiments, the insert member 240 is removed and the insert member 210is removed thereafter in order to reduce the force required to removethe insert member 210. The insert members 210, 240 may be discarded orreused in another pre-expanded unit 12.

After the holdout support 200 has been removed from the holdout device102, the pre-expanded unit 12 is slid over the cable 50 as shown in FIG.8. According to some embodiments, the inside diameter of the holdout 102is greater than the outer diameter of each cable 40, 50 such that theinner diameter of the holdout 102 is sufficient to receive the preparedcable 40, 50 and the connector 60 without undue effort. According tosome embodiments, the inner diameter of the holdout 102 is at least asgreat as the outer diameter of the largest portion of the cables orconnectors that are to be received in the passage 136. The pre-expandedunit 12 may be retained or parked on the cable 50 until the operator isready to install the cover assembly 100 on the cables 40, 50.

The electrical connector 60 is secured to each primary conductor 42, 52to mechanically and electrically couple the primary conductors 42, 52 toone another as shown in FIG. 8. The connector 60 may be any suitabletype of connector such as a metal crimp connector.

The pre-expanded unit 12 is then slid into position over the connector60. The holdout 102 is then removed from the cover assembly 100, therebypermitting the elastomeric sleeves 130, 140 to relax and radiallyretract about the cables 40, 50 and the connector 60. According to someembodiments, the inner sleeve 130 overlaps and engages the semiconductorlayers 44, 54 of the cables 40, 50.

More particularly and with reference to FIG. 6, the holdout 102 isremoved by pulling the pull cord 102C through the passage 102D in awithdrawal direction P (i.e., from the distal end 102E to the proximalend 102F). As a result, the strip 102A is progressively removed from thedistal end 102E, causing the cylinder 102B to progressively disintegratefrom the distal end 102E. This in turn permits the inner sleeve 130 andthe outer sleeve 140 to contract radially inwardly. This process iscontinued until the cylinder 102B is fully disintegrated and the strip102A removed from the inner sleeve 130.

The excess length of the neutral conductors 46 is routed or threadedthrough the passage 156 of the duct 151.

The neutral conductors 46 are then electrically and mechanically coupledto the neutral conductors 56 by any suitable neutral connector 62 asshown in FIG. 9. The neutral connector 62 may be any suitable connectorsuch as a metal crimp connector. As shown in FIG. 9, the neutralconductors 46, 56 of the two cables 40, 50 may be coupled to one anotheron only one side of the connector 60. Alternatively, the neutralconductors 46, 56 may be coupled to one another on both sides of theconnector 60.

Strips of sealant 64 may be applied to the outer surfaces of the cablejackets 48, 58. The operator then rolls each of the extension sections149 of the outer sleeve 140 axially outwardly to cover the adjacentsections of the cables 40 and 50, respectively. According to someembodiments, at least a portion of each extension section 149 overlaps arespective portion of each cable jacket 48, 58 and engages theassociated sealant strip 64 to provide a moisture seal. The coverassembly 100 is thereby fully installed to form the connection assembly10 as shown in FIG. 10.

Alternatively, the neutral conductors 46 can be routed through the duct151 before the holdout 102 has been removed and the cover assembly 100has been initially secured about the splice connection 15.

According to further embodiments, the cover assembly 100 may includemore than one duct 151 and the ducts may be disposed at differentpositions about the circumference of the cover assembly 100. In thiscase, the neutral conductors 46 can routed through two or more of theduct assemblies. In some embodiments, a second duct is locatedcircumferentially substantially opposite the duct 151 on the ductposition axis G-G, so that the lateral axis J-J of the insert member 210is substantially aligned with both ducts.

The relaxed inner diameter of the outer sleeve 140 is less than at leastthe outer diameter of the jacket layers 48, 58. Therefore, the outersleeve 140 exerts a radially inwardly compressive or clamping force orpressure (due to elastic tension) onto the cables 40, 50. The outersleeve 140 thereby effects a liquid tight seal at the interface betweenthe cable jackets 48, 58 and the outer sleeve 140. This seal can protectthe cable and the splice from the ingress of environmental moisture.According to some embodiments the relaxed inner diameter of the innersleeve 130 is at least 10% less than the smallest diameter cable uponwhich the cover assembly 100 is intended to be installed.

Cover assemblies and methods of the present invention and as describedherein can provide a number of advantages. The cover assembly 100provides an “all-in-one” integral unit that can be installed in similarfashion to known cold shrink splice cover insulating tubes and that alsoaccommodates the neutral conductors of concentric neutral cables. Thecover assembly 100 including the inner sleeve 130, the outer sleeve 140and the duct 151 can be preassembled at a factory. Therefore, it is notnecessary to provide and install a separate and supplemental rejacketing cover to cover the neutral conductors (which must beelectrically insulated from the primary conductors 42, 52 and theprimary connector 60).

The cover assembly 100 can also provide advantages over known“all-in-one” integral units of the type wherein an electricallyconductive mesh is incorporated into the cover assembly to engage andprovide continuity between the neutral conductors (typically, coppertapes) of the concentric neutral cables. In particular, in the case ofthese known cover assemblies, the electrically conductive mesh may notbe sufficiently conductive to provide the amount of continuity desiredor required. For example, the neutral conductors of the cables beingspliced may have a greater combined gauge than that of the connectingmesh. By permitting the use of the original neutral conductors of thecables 40, 50, the cover assembly 100 can ensure that the neutralconductors provided across the cover assembly 100 and the spliceconnection 15 are of the proper gauge. In this way, adequate continuitybetween the cables 40, 50 can be ensured.

The cover assemblies and methods of the present invention also permitthe operator to form the connection with only a single connection (forexample, crimp connection) between the neutral conductors of one cableand the neutral conductors of the other cable. Moreover, thisconfiguration permits the operator to form the connection with a crimpon only one side of the splice.

With reference to FIG. 11, an insert member 310 according to furtherembodiments is shown therein. The insert member 310 can be used in placeof the insert member 210. The insert member 310 may also be used inplace of the insert member 240.

The insert member 310 differs from the insert member 210 in that theinsert member 310 is additionally provided with a duct locator orangular alignment feature 332 in the form of an elongate post. In use,the angular alignment feature 332 is inserted into the passage 156 ofthe duct 151 as described below for the duct locator feature 424 of theholdout support 400. The angular alignment feature 332 can thereby serveto positively locate and angularly orient the insert member 310 and theholdout support including the insert member 310 with respect to the duct151 and the cover member 100.

With reference to FIGS. 12-17, a pre-expanded cover assembly unit 14according to further embodiments of the present invention is showntherein. The pre-expanded cover assembly unit 14 includes the coverassembly 100 and a sleeve support assembly 403. The sleeve supportassembly 403 includes the holdout device 102 and a holdout support 400.The holdout support 400 is assembled from a holdout support system 401,as discussed below.

In the pre-expanded cover assembly unit 14, the holdout device 102maintains the cover assembly 100 is in an expanded state or position asdescribed above with regard to the pre-expanded cover assembly unit 12.The holdout support 400 in turn supports the holdout device 102 toresist undesired deformation of the holdout device 102 under the load ofthe cover assembly 100. In particular, the holdout support 400 prevents,limits or resists radial deformation of the holdout device 102.

The cover assembly 100 may be used, deployed from the holdout device102, and mounted on an intended substrate as described above with regardto the pre-expanded cover assembly unit 12, except that the holdoutsupport 400 is constructed and operated differently than the holdoutsupport 200.

The holdout support 400 includes a first or outer insert member 410 anda second or inner insert member 450.

The outer insert member 410 has opposed ends 412A, 412B. The outerinsert member 410 has a lengthwise axis K-K and a lateral axis J-Jperpendicular to the lengthwise axis K-K. The axis K-K extends parallelto the lengthwise axis E-E of the holdout 102 in the assembly 403. Theouter insert member 410 has an outer portion 414A extending from theouter end 412A and an inner portion 414B extending from the inner end412B. Opposed lateral edges 416 extend lengthwise substantially parallelto the axis K-K, from proximate end 412A to end 412B.

The outer portion 414A includes a handle 420 and a recess or opening422. The outer portion 414A also includes a duct locator or angularalignment feature 424 in the form of an elongate post.

The inner portion 414B includes opposed, longitudinally extending legs432, which include the opposed lateral edges 416. Each leg 432 iscantilevered and extends from a base end secured to the outer portion414A proximate the handle 420 to a free end at the inner end 412B. Alongitudinally extending receiver slot 430 is defined by and between thelegs 432.

Each leg 432 includes a series of integral, longitudinally spaced apart,laterally inwardly extending lateral retention features or tabs 434. Ascan be seen in FIG. 25, the retention tabs 434 are provided in pairs oftabs 434 that are laterally offset from one another to define a track orgap 434A therebetween.

Each leg 432 includes a series of integral, longitudinally spaced apart,laterally inwardly extending actuator features 436. Each actuatorfeature 436 includes a ramped surface 436A and a land surface 436B.

The inner insert member 450 has opposed ends 452A, 452B. The insertmember 450 has a lengthwise axis M-M and a lateral axis N-Nperpendicular to the lengthwise axis M-M. The axis M-M extends parallelto the axis K-K. The insert member 450 has an outer portion 454Aextending from the outer end 452A and an inner portion 454B extendingfrom the inner end 452B.

The outer portion 454A includes a handle 460 and a recess or opening462.

The inner portion 454B includes a longitudinally extending elongate body464, which extends cantilevered from a base end secured to the outerportion 454A proximate the handle 460 to a free end at the inner end452B.

A series of integral, opposed, longitudinally spaced apart actuatorfeatures 466 extend laterally outwardly from opposed lateral sides ofthe elongate body 464. Each actuator feature 466 includes a rampedsurface 466A.

The insert members 410, 450 are assembled into the holdout support 400by inserting the inner insert member 450 into the outer insert member410 with their respective lengthwise axes K-K, M-M substantiallyparallel as shown in FIG. 12. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 16, the handle460 is seated in the recess 422 and the elongate body 464 is positionedin the slot 430 between the legs 432. The elongate body 464 is seated inthe gaps 434A between the retention tabs 434 so that the elongate body464 is laterally retained in the outer insert member 410. The innerinsert member 450 is located in a forward position relative to the outerinsert member 450 as shown in FIG. 16 such that the actuator features466 are positioned laterally between opposed pairs of actuator featurelands 436B.

This position (FIG. 16) may be referred to as the expanded configurationof the holdout support 400. In the expanded position, the legs 432 (andthereby the lateral edges 416) are prevented or limited from deflectinglaterally inward by the abutment between the actuator features 466 andthe actuator feature lands 436B. In the expanded configuration, thewidth of the legs 432 is limited to no less than the width W15 (FIG.16). The holdout support 400 can be transitioned to a releasedconfiguration as shown in FIG. 17 by pulling the insert member 450rearwardly (i.e., in a direction DH) relative to the insert member 410,thereby pulling the actuator features 466 out of abutment with theactuator feature lands 436B. In the released configuration, the legs 432(and thereby the lateral edges 416) can be displaced radially inwardlyto a width narrower than the expanded width W15.

According to some embodiments, the length L14 (FIG. 14) of the each leg432 is in the range of from about 6 to 35 inches. According to someembodiments, the length L14 is greater than the length of the holdout102. According to some embodiments, the length L14 is in the range offrom about 1 inch greater or less than the length of the holdout 102.

The insert members 410, 450 can be formed of a material or materials asdiscussed above for the insert members 210, 240. The insert members 410,450 can be formed using a technique or techniques as described above forthe insert members 210, 240. According to some embodiments, each insertmember 410, 450 is a unitary, monolithic structure.

According to some embodiments, the thickness of each insert member 410,450 is in the range of from about 2 to 20 mm.

The pre-expanded unit 14 can be assembled or manufactured as follows inaccordance with methods of the invention. The holdout 102 is providedhaving an initial or relaxed inner diameter. The holdout support 400 isassembled as described above from the insert members 410, 450. Theholdout support 400 is then inserted into the passage 102D of theholdout 102 as shown in FIG. 16. The angular alignment feature 424 isinserted into the passage 156 of the duct 151. In some embodiments, theholdout support 400 is inserted in the passage 102D while in theexpanded configuration (FIG. 16). Alternatively, the holdout support 400is inserted in the passage 102D while in the released configuration(FIG. 17), and then the insert member 450 is displaced or pushed forwardrelative to the insert member 410 to place the holdout support 400 inthe expanded configuration. The ramped surfaces 436A, 466A ease thetransition. The sleeve support assembly 403 is thereby constructed. Theangular alignment feature 424 can serve to positively locate andangularly orient the insert member 410 with respect to the duct 151 andthe cover member 100.

In some embodiments, the width W15 of the insert member 410 when theholdout support 400 is in the expanded position is chosen such that theholdout support 400 can be slid into the passage with little resistance.According to some embodiments, the lateral width W15 is substantiallythe same as the relaxed inner diameter of the holdout 102 before theelastically expanded inner sleeve 130 is mounted on the holdout 102. Insome embodiments, the lateral width W15 is in the range of from about 0to 5 mm less than the relaxed inner diameter of the holdout 102.

The inner sleeve 130 and remaining components of the cover assembly 100are thereafter mounted on the holdout 102 (i.e., on the sleeve supportassembly 403). In particular, the inner sleeve 130 is mounted on theholdout 102 in an elastically expanded state. The inner diameter of theinner sleeve 130 in a relaxed state is less than the outer diameter ofthe holdout 102 and, as a result, the holdout maintains the inner sleeve130 in an elastically radially expanded state. The outer sleeve 140 mayalso be maintained in an elastically radially expanded state.

The holdout support 400 can provide resistance to warpage or deformationof the holdout device 102 as described above at different stages duringthe life of the pre-expanded unit 14. The holdout support 400 canprovide resistance to warpage or deformation of the holdout device 102during assembly of the pre-expanded unit 14 (i.e., as the cover assembly100 is being mounted on the holdout device 102), during storage of thepre-expanded unit 14, and during transport of the pre-expanded unit 14.

The pre-expanded unit 14 can be used in the same manner as thepre-expanded unit 12 to install the cover assembly 100 on a substrate,except in the manner that the holdout support 400 is removed from theholdout device 102. In use, the handle 460 is pulled toward the handle420, thereby transitioning the holdout support 400 from the expandedconfiguration (FIG. 16) to the released position (FIG. 17). The handle460 may be conveniently pulled by grabbing around both handles 420, 460and squeezing the handle 420 toward the handle 460. The legs 432 arethereby permit to deflect radially inwardly, reducing the load betweenthe lateral edges 416 and the inner surface of the holdout device 102.The holdout support 400 in the released configuration is then withdrawnfrom the passage 102D. The remainder of the pre-expanded unit 14 isthereafter deployed in the same manner as described above for thepre-expanded unit 12.

With reference to FIGS. 18-22, a holdout support 500 according tofurther embodiments of the present invention is shown therein. Theholdout support 500 is used in place of and in the same manner as theholdout support 400 in the pre-expanded unit 14. The holdout support 500is assembled from a holdout support system 501, as discussed below. Asdescribed above with regard to the pre-expanded cover assembly unit 14,the holdout device 102 maintains the cover assembly 100 in an expandedstate or position, and the holdout support 500 in turn supports theholdout device 102 to resist undesired deformation of the holdout device102 under the load of the cover assembly 100. In particular, the holdoutsupport 500 prevents, limits or resists radial deformation of theholdout device 102.

The holdout support 500 includes a first or outer insert member 510 anda second or inner insert member 550.

The outer insert member 510 has opposed ends 512A, 512B. The outerinsert member 510 has a lengthwise axis K-K and a lateral axis J-Jperpendicular to the lengthwise axis K-K. The axis K-K is parallel tothe holdout central axis E-E when the holdout support 500 is mounted inthe holdout 102. The outer insert member 510 has an outer portion 514Aextending from the outer end 512A and an inner portion 514B extendingfrom the inner end 512B. Opposed lateral edges 516 extend lengthwisesubstantially parallel to the axis K-K, from proximate end 512A to end512B.

The outer portion 514A includes a handle 520 and a recess or opening522. The outer portion 514A also includes a duct locator or angularalignment feature 524 in the form of an elongate post.

The inner portion 514B includes opposed longitudinally extending legs532, which include the opposed lateral edges 516. Each leg 532 iscantilevered and extends from a base end secured to the outer portion514A proximate the handle 520 to a free end at the inner end 512B. Alongitudinally extending receiver slot 530 is defined by and between thelegs 532.

Each leg 532 includes a series of integral, longitudinally spaced apart,laterally inwardly extending actuator features 536. Each actuatorfeature 536 includes a ramped surface 536A.

The inner insert member 550 has opposed ends 552A, 552B. The insertmember 550 has a lengthwise axis M-M and a lateral axis N-Nperpendicular to the lengthwise axis M-M. The axis M-M extends parallelto the axis K-K. The insert member 550 has an outer portion 554Aextending from the outer end 552A and an inner portion 554B extendingfrom the inner end 552B. Opposed lateral edges 564 extend lengthwisesubstantially parallel to the axis M-M, from end 512A to end 512B.

The outer portion 514A is provided with a handle 560.

The inner portion 514B includes laterally extending crossbars 568defining openings or voids 566 therebetween. Each crossbar 568 includesan actuator feature 570. Each actuator feature 570 includes a rampedsurface 570A and a land 570B.

The insert members 510, 550 are assembled into the holdout support 500by relatively orienting the insert members 510, 550 at a 90 degreeangular offset and inserting the inner member 550 into the receiver slot530 of the outer insert member 550 as shown in FIG. 21. Thus positioned,the holdout support 500 is placed in a released configuration. In thereleased configuration, the legs 532 can be displaced radially inwardlyto a width narrower than the expanded width W17 (FIG. 20). The innerinsert member 550 is then pushed axially forward relative to the outerinsert member 510 until the actuator features 536 abut the lands 570B,thereby transitioning the holdout support 500 into an expandedconfiguration as shown in FIGS. 18-20. In the expanded configuration,the width of the legs 532 is limited to no less than the width W17.

The insert members 510, 550 are thereby secured in a criss-crossconfiguration with their respective lengthwise axes K-K, M-Msubstantially parallel and their respective lateral axes J-J, N-Nsubstantially perpendicular. In this way, the insert members 510, 550form a generally “t” or “+” profile, shape or configuration in lateralcross-section (FIG. 18).

According to some embodiments, the length L15 (FIG. 20) of the each leg532 is in the range of from about 6 to 35 inches. According to someembodiments, the length L15 is greater than the length of the holdout102. According to some embodiments, the length L15 is in the range offrom about 1 inch greater or less than the length of the holdout 102.

The insert members 510, 550 can be formed of a material or materials asdiscussed above for the insert members 210, 240. The insert members 510,550 can be formed using a technique or techniques as described above forthe insert members 210, 240. According to some embodiments, each insertmember 510, 550 is a unitary, monolithic structure.

According to some embodiments, the thickness of each insert member 510,550 is in the range of from about 2 to 20 mm.

A pre-expanded unit can be assembled or manufactured using the holdoutsupport 500 in the same manner as described for the holdout support 400and the pre-expanded unit 14. The holdout 102 is provided having aninitial or relaxed inner diameter. The holdout support 500 is assembledas described above from the insert members 510, 550. The holdout support500 is then inserted into the passage 102D of the holdout 102. Theangular alignment feature 524 is inserted into the passage 156 of theduct 151. In some embodiments, the holdout support 500 is inserted inthe passage 102D while in the expanded configuration. Alternatively, theholdout support 500 is inserted in the passage 102D while in thereleased configuration, and then the insert member 550 is displaced orpushed forward relative to the insert member 510 to place the holdoutsupport 500 in the expanded configuration. The ramped surfaces 536A,570A ease the transition. A sleeve support assembly is therebyconstructed. The angular alignment feature 524 can serve to positivelylocate and angularly orient the insert member 510 with respect to theduct 151 and the cover member 100.

In some embodiments, the widths W17 (FIG. 20), W16 (FIG. 22) of theinsert members 510, 550 when the holdout support 400 is in the expandedposition are chosen such that the holdout support 500 can be slid intothe passage with little resistance. According to some embodiments, thelateral widths W17, W16 are substantially the same as the relaxed innerdiameter of the holdout 102 before the elastically expanded inner sleeve130 is mounted on the holdout 102. In some embodiments, the lateralwidths W17, W16 are in the range of from about 0 to 3 mm less than therelaxed inner diameter of the holdout 102.

The inner sleeve 130 and remaining components of the cover assembly 100are thereafter mounted on the holdout 102. In particular, the innersleeve 130 is mounted on the holdout 102 in an elastically expandedstate. The inner diameter of the inner sleeve 130 in a relaxed state isless than the outer diameter of the holdout 102 and, as a result, theholdout maintains the inner sleeve 130 in an elastically radiallyexpanded state. The outer sleeve 140 may also be maintained in anelastically radially expanded state.

The holdout support 500 can provide resistance to warpage or deformationof the holdout device 102 as described above at different stages duringthe life of the pre-expanded unit. The holdout support 500 can provideresistance to warpage or deformation of the holdout device 102 duringassembly of the pre-expanded unit (i.e., as the cover assembly 100 isbeing mounted on the holdout device 102), during storage of thepre-expanded unit, and during transport of the pre-expanded unit.

The pre-expanded unit can be used in the same manner as the pre-expandedunit 14 to install the cover assembly 100 on a substrate, except thatthe holdout support 500 engages the inner diameter of the holdout device102 along both the lateral edges 516 and the lateral edges 564, andreinforces the holdout device 102 along both of the axes J-J, N-N. Inuse, the handle 560 is forcibly pulled toward the handle 520, therebytransitioning the holdout support 500 from the expanded configuration tothe released position. The handle 560 may be conveniently pulled bygrabbing around both handles 520, 560 and squeezing the handle 520toward the handle 560 in the direction DH (FIG. 20). The insert member510 is thereby axially displaced relative to the insert member 550. Theactuator features 570 are thereby withdrawn from laterally between theactuator features 536. The legs 532 are thereby permitted to deflectradially inwardly, reducing the load between the lateral edges 516 andthe inner surface of the holdout device 102. The holdout support 500 inthe released configuration is then withdrawn from the passage 102D. Theremainder of the pre-expanded unit is thereafter deployed in the samemanner as described above for the pre-expanded unit 12.

With reference to FIGS. 23-25, a holdout support 600 according tofurther embodiments of the present invention is shown therein. Theholdout support 600 can be used in place of and in the same manner asthe holdout support 400 in the pre-expanded unit 14. The holdout support600 is assembled from a holdout support system 601, as discussed below.As described above with regard to the pre-expanded cover assembly unit14, the holdout device 102 maintains the cover assembly 100 is in anexpanded state or position, and the holdout support 600 in turn supportsthe holdout device 102 to resist undesired deformation of the holdoutdevice 102 under the load of the cover assembly 100. In particular, theholdout support 600 prevents, limits or resists radial deformation ofthe holdout device 102.

The holdout support 600 includes a first or outer insert member 610, asecond or inner insert member 650, a lock member 680, and a lockmechanism 681. The outer insert member 610 and the inner insert member650 are constructed and operate in the same manner as the outer insertmember 510 and the inner insert member 550, respectively, except asdiscussed below.

The outer insert member 610 includes a retention slot 617 defined in theinner side 620A of the handle 620. The retention slot 617 cooperateswith the lock member 680 to form the locking mechanism 681.

The lock member 680 includes a wedge portion 682 and an integral handle684. The wedge portion 682 has an inner end 682A and an opposing outerend 682B. The inner end 682A engages the outer end 660A of the handle660 of the inner insert member 650. In some embodiments, the inner end682A is integral with the handle 660. In some embodiments, the inner end682A is unitarily molded with the handle 660.

In use, the lock member 680 is initially provided in the lockingposition as show in FIGS. 23-25. In the locking position, the wedgeportion 682 is interposed or wedged between the inner face 620A of thehandle 620 and the outer face 660A of the handle 660. The outer end 682Bof the lock member 680 is seated in the retention slot 617. In thelocking position, the lock member 680 prevents the handles 620 and 660from being pulled together a distance sufficient to transition theholdout support 600 from the expanded configuration to the releasedposition.

When it is desired to remove the holdout support 600 from the holdout102, the wedge portion 682 is removed from between the handles 620, 660by grabbing and pulling the lock member handle 684 laterally (indirection P; FIG. 24). With the wedge portion 682 removed, the handle660 may be conveniently pulled by grabbing around both handles 620, 660and squeezing the handle 620 toward the handle 660 in the direction DH(FIG. 25) as described above for the holdout support 500.

The holdout support 600 also differs from the holdout support 500 inthat each crossbar 668 includes an actuator feature 670 that includesramped surfaces 670A without lands corresponding to lands 570B. Thus,the ramped surfaces 636A of the actuator feature 636 abut the rampedsurfaces 670A when the holdout support 600 is in the expandedconfiguration. As a result, the inner member 610 is easier for aninstaller to slide relative to the outer member 650 to transition theholdout support 600 from the expanded configuration to the releasedposition. However, in the absence of the lock member 680, the ease oftransition may risk inadvertent actuation of the holdout support 600.The locking mechanism 681 thus serves to prevent undesired andinadvertent release of the holdout support 600.

With reference to FIGS. 26-29, a holdout support 700 according tofurther embodiments of the present invention is shown therein. Theholdout support 700 can be used in place of and in the same manner asthe holdout support 400 and the holdout support 600 in the pre-expandedunit 14. The holdout support 700 is assembled from a holdout supportsystem 701, as discussed below. As described above with regard to thepre-expanded cover assembly unit 14, the holdout device 102 maintainsthe cover assembly 100 is in an expanded state or position, and theholdout support 700 in turn supports the holdout device 102 to resistundesired deformation of the holdout device 102 under the load of thecover assembly 100. In particular, the holdout support 700 prevents,limits or resists radial deformation of the holdout device 102.

The holdout support 700 includes a first or outer insert member 710, asecond or inner insert member 750, a lock member 780, and a lockmechanism 781. The outer insert member 710 and the inner insert member750 are constructed and operate in the same manner as the outer insertmember 510 and the inner insert member 550, respectively, except asdiscussed below.

The inner insert member 750 includes an integral retention flange 757projecting from the outer side 760A of the handle 760. The retentionflange 757 cooperates with the lock member 780 to form the lockingmechanism 781.

The lock member 780 includes a wedge body 782, a retention slot 784,opposed side tabs 786A, and a top tab 786B. The tabs 786A-B define aretention socket 786D.

In use, the lock member 780 is initially provided in the lockingposition as show in FIGS. 26-28. In the locking position, the wedge body782 is interposed or wedged between the inner face 760A of the handle760 and the outer face 720A of the handle 720. The inner end of theinsert member 710 is seated in the retention socket 786D. The retentionflange 757 is seated in the retention slot 784. In the locking position,the lock member 780 prevents the handles 720, 760 from being pulledtogether a distance sufficient to transition the holdout support 700from the expanded configuration to the released position.

When it is desired to remove the holdout support 700 from the holdout102, the lock member 780 is removed from between the handles 720, 760 bygrabbing and pulling the lock member 780 up and out (in direction P;FIG. 28). With the lock member 780 removed, the handle 760 may beconveniently pulled by grabbing around both handles 720, 760 andsqueezing the handle 720 toward the handle 760 in the direction DH (FIG.28) as described above for the holdout support 500.

It will be appreciated that the lock member 780 and lock mechanism 781can provide benefits similar to those of the lock member 680 and thelock mechanism 681.

In some embodiments, a holdout support as disclosed herein is used tosupport a holdout while other components (e.g., the sleeves 130, 140)are being mounted on the holdout during manufacture. The holdout supportis then removed from the holdout prior to storage or delivery of theholdout and other components to the end user.

According to some embodiments, the lateral edges 216, 416, 516, 564 aresmooth and the holdout support is installed such that no debris ispresent on the lateral edges. In this way, the holdout support does notintroduce scratches on the internal surface of the holdout 102, suchscratches could in turn affect the surface finish on the internalsurface of the inner sleeve 130.

Holdout supports and sleeve support assemblies according to embodimentsof the invention can be used with covers and cover assemblies of othertypes and configurations. The cover assemblies may include additionallayers and/or certain layers may be omitted. For example, the coverassemblies may be formed without the semiconductor layer 139. One ormore additional layers may be interposed between the inner sleeve 130and the outer sleeve 140. The cover assembly may use a duct of adifferent design (e.g., a nonflexible duct) and/or may include multipleducts. The pre-expanded unit may include a cover or cover assemblywithout a duct. The cover on the pre-expanded unit may consist of only asingle elastomeric sleeve (e.g., an elastomeric joint body sleeve thatis mounted independently of or without the other components, or anelastomeric re-jacket sleeve that is mounted independently of or withoutthe other components).

While in the embodiments shown in the drawings the neutral conductorsare wires, according to further embodiments the neutral conductors maytake other shapes or configurations such as one or more flat tapes. Insome embodiments, an elongate jumper or extension conductor is providedthat is clamped or otherwise secured in electrical contact with thecable neutral conductors (e.g., flat copper tapes) on either side of thesplice and is routed through the duct (e.g., the duct 151) as describedherein. In this case, the jumper conductor constitutes a neutralconductor and is an extension of the neutral conductor of at least oneof the spliced cables. The jumper conductor may be a braided copper meshor sock, for example.

Pre-expanded units and holdout supports according to embodiments of theinvention may be used for any suitable cables and connections. Suchcable assemblies may be adapted for use, for example, with connectionsof medium voltage cables up to about 46 kV. In some applications, thecover assemblies or ducts are installed on underground residentialdistribution (URD) cable splices.

The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and is not to beconstrued as limiting thereof. Although a few exemplary embodiments ofthis invention have been described, those skilled in the art willreadily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplaryembodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings andadvantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications areintended to be included within the scope of this invention. Therefore,it is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of the presentinvention and is not to be construed as limited to the specificembodiments disclosed, and that modifications to the disclosedembodiments, as well as other embodiments, are intended to be includedwithin the scope of the invention.

1. An integral, unitary pre-expanded cover assembly unit for covering anelectrical connection between first and second electrical cables eachhaving a primary conductor and a neutral conductor, the pre-expandedcover assembly unit comprising: a cover assembly including: anelastomeric sleeve defining a cable passage to receive the electricalconnection and the primary conductors of the first and second cables;and a duct overlying the elastomeric sleeve, the duct defining a ductpassage configured to receive at least one of the neutral conductorstherethrough; a holdout removably mounted within the cable passage ofthe elastomeric sleeve, the holdout defining a holdout passage, whereinthe holdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state; and aholdout support removably mounted within the holdout passage, whereinthe holdout support reinforces the holdout; wherein the holdout supportincludes an integral angular alignment feature received in the ductpassage.
 2. (canceled)
 3. The pre-expanded cover assembly unit of claim1 wherein the holdout includes a tubular holdout body formed from ahelically wound strip, and the holdout is removable from the elastomericsleeve by pulling the strip.
 4. The pre-expanded cover assembly unit ofclaim 1 wherein: the elastomeric sleeve is a first elastomeric sleeve;the cover assembly includes a second elastomeric sleeve surrounding thefirst elastomeric sleeve; the duct is interposed radially between thefirst and second elastomeric sleeves; and the holdout maintains thesecond elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state.
 5. The pre-expandedcover assembly unit of claim 4 wherein: the second elastomeric sleeve isformed of ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber; the firstelastomeric sleeve is formed of silicone rubber; the cover assemblyincludes a Faraday cage sleeve mounted within the first elastomericsleeve and formed of an electrically conductive elastomer; the coverassembly includes a stress cone sleeve mounted within the firstelastomeric sleeve proximate an end thereof, wherein the stress conesleeve is formed of an electrically conductive elastomer; and the coverassembly includes a semiconductor layer mounted on an outer side of thefirst elastomeric sleeve.
 6. The pre-expanded cover assembly unit ofclaim 1 wherein the cover assembly is a cold shrinkable cover assembly.7. The pre-expanded cover assembly unit of claim 1 wherein the holdoutsupport is configured to be selectively transitioned from an expandedconfiguration in the holdout passage to a released configuration tofacilitate removal of the holdout support from the holdout passage. 8.The pre-expanded cover assembly unit of claim 7 wherein: the holdoutsupport includes a first insert member and a second insert member; andthe holdout support is configured to transition from the expandedconfiguration to the released configuration by displacing the secondinsert member relative to the first insert member.
 9. An integral,unitary pre-expanded cover assembly unit for covering an electricalconnection between first and second electrical cables each having aprimary conductor and a neutral conductor, the pre-expanded coverassembly unit comprising: a cover assembly including: an elastomericsleeve defining a cable passage to receive the electrical connection andthe primary conductors of the first and second cables; and a ductoverlying the elastomeric sleeve, the duct defining a duct passageconfigured to receive at least one of the neutral conductorstherethrough; a holdout removably mounted within the cable passage ofthe elastomeric sleeve, the holdout defining a holdout passage, whereinthe holdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state; and aholdout support removably mounted within the holdout passage, whereinthe holdout support reinforces the holdout; wherein: the holdout supportis configured to be selectively transitioned from an expandedconfiguration in the holdout passage to a released configuration tofacilitate removal of the holdout support from the holdout passage. theholdout support includes a first insert member and a second insertmember; the holdout support is configured to transition from theexpanded configuration to the released configuration by displacing thesecond insert member relative to the first insert member; the firstinsert member engages the holdout along a first radial axis; the secondinsert member engages the holdout along a second radial axis; and thefirst and second radial axes are substantially perpendicular.
 10. Anintegral, unitary pre-expanded cover assembly unit for covering anelectrical connection between first and second electrical cables eachhaving a primary conductor and a neutral conductor, the pre-expandedcover assembly unit comprising: a cover assembly including: anelastomeric sleeve defining a cable passage to receive the electricalconnection and the primary conductors of the first and second cables;and a duct overlying the elastomeric sleeve, the duct defining a ductpassage configured to receive at least one of the neutral conductorstherethrough; a holdout removably mounted within the cable passage ofthe elastomeric sleeve, the holdout defining a holdout passage, whereinthe holdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state; and aholdout support removably mounted within the holdout passage, whereinthe holdout support reinforces the holdout; wherein: the holdout supportis configured to be selectively transitioned from an expandedconfiguration in the holdout passage to a released configuration tofacilitate removal of the holdout support from the holdout passage. theholdout support includes a first insert member and a second insertmember; and the holdout support is configured to transition from theexpanded configuration to the released configuration by relativelyaxially displacing the second insert member relative to the first insertmember.
 11. The pre-expanded cover assembly unit of claim 10 wherein:the first insert member includes an integral first handle; the secondinsert member includes an integral second handle; and the holdoutsupport is configured to transition from the expanded configuration tothe released configuration by squeezing the first and second handlestoward one another.
 12. The pre-expanded cover assembly unit of claim 10wherein: the first insert member includes a pair of opposed legs and anintegral first actuator feature; the second insert member includes anintegral second actuator feature engaging the first actuator feature tohold the opposed legs in a radially expanded position; at least one ofthe first and second actuator features is ramped; and relatively axiallydisplacing the second insert member relative to the first insert memberdisplaces the second actuator feature relative to the first actuatorfeature to permit the opposed legs to move toward one another.
 13. Thepre-expanded cover assembly unit of claim 10 including a lock memberthat prevents relative axial displacement between the second insertmember and the first insert member to transition from the expandedconfiguration to the released configuration, and is selectivelyremovable to permit relative axial displacement between the secondinsert member and the first insert member to transition from theexpanded configuration to the released configuration.
 14. Thepre-expanded cover assembly unit of claim 1 wherein: the holdout supportincludes a first insert member and a second insert member; and the firstinsert member and the second insert member are independently removablefrom the holdout passage to facilitate removal of the holdout supportfrom the holdout passage.
 15. An integral, unitary pre-expanded coverassembly unit for covering an electrical connection between first andsecond electrical cables each having a primary conductor and a neutralconductor, the pre-expanded cover assembly unit comprising: a coverassembly including: an elastomeric sleeve defining a cable passage toreceive the electrical connection and the primary conductors of thefirst and second cables; and a duct overlying the elastomeric sleeve,the duct defining a duct passage configured to receive at least one ofthe neutral conductors therethrough; a holdout removably mounted withinthe cable passage of the elastomeric sleeve, the holdout defining aholdout passage, wherein the holdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve inan expanded state; and a holdout support removably mounted within theholdout passage, wherein the holdout support reinforces the holdout;wherein: the holdout support includes a first insert member and a secondinsert member; the first insert member and the second insert member areindependently removable from the holdout passage to facilitate removalof the holdout support from the holdout passage; the first insert memberengages the holdout along a first radial axis; the second insert memberengages the holdout along a second radial axis; and the first and secondradial axes are substantially perpendicular.
 16. (canceled)
 17. Themethod of claim 18 wherein: the holdout includes a tubular holdout bodyformed from a helically wound strip; and axially removing the holdoutfrom elastomeric sleeve includes pulling the strip such that the tubularholdout body progressively disintegrates.
 18. A method for forming aconnection assembly, the method comprising: forming an electricalconnection between first and second electrical cables, the first andsecond cables each including a primary conductor and at least oneneutral conductor; providing an integral, unitary pre-expanded coverassembly unit including: a cover assembly including: an elastomericsleeve defining a cable passage to receive the electrical connection andthe primary conductors of the first and second cables; and a ductoverlying the elastomeric sleeve, the duct defining a duct passageconfigured to receive at least one of the neutral conductorstherethrough; a holdout removably mounted within the cable passage ofthe elastomeric sleeve, the holdout defining a holdout passage, whereinthe holdout maintains the elastomeric sleeve in an expanded state; and aholdout support removably mounted within the holdout passage, whereinthe holdout support reinforces the holdout; removing the holdout supportfrom the holdout passage; mounting the cover assembly on the cables suchthat the electrical connection and the primary conductors of the firstand second cables extend through the cable passage and the holdoutpassage; inserting the at least one neutral conductor of the first cablethrough the duct passage; removing the holdout from the elastomericsleeve; and coupling the at least one neutral conductor of the firstcable with the at least one neutral conductor of the second cable;wherein: the holdout support is configured to be selectivelytransitioned from an expanded configuration in the holdout passage to areleased configuration to facilitate removal of the holdout support fromthe holdout passage; and the method includes transitioning the holdoutsupport from the expanded configuration to the released configurationprior to the step of removing the holdout support from the holdoutpassage.
 19. The method of claim 18 wherein: the holdout supportincludes a first insert member and a second insert member; and themethod further includes removing a lock member from between the firstinsert member and the second insert member to permit the holdout supportto transition from the expanded configuration to the releasedconfiguration. 20.-28. (canceled)
 29. The pre-expanded cover assemblyunit of claim 10 wherein: the first insert member engages the holdoutalong a first radial axis; the second insert member engages the holdoutalong a second radial axis; and the first and second radial axes aresubstantially perpendicular.
 30. The method of claim 18 wherein: theholdout support includes an integral angular alignment feature receivedin the duct passage; and the method includes removing the angularalignment feature from the duct passage.
 31. The method of claim 18wherein: the holdout support includes a first insert member and a secondinsert member; and the method includes relatively axially displacing thesecond insert member relative to the first insert member to transitionfrom the expanded configuration to the released configuration.